WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith (D-WA) and Ranking Member Mac Thornberry (R-TX) today issued the following statement on the passing of former Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher:

“The passing of former Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher is a terrible loss for the nation, California, and those like us who were lucky enough to call her both a colleague and friend.  Throughout Ellen’s fifteen years in Congress, we knew her to be a passionate advocate for American servicemembers, as well as an effective, principled leader with a warm and generous heart.  Ellen’s tireless work as a member of the House Armed Services Committee will have an undeniable, lasting impact.  Her historic leadership of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee and on nuclear security issues and arms control remains a testament to her interminable commitment the nation’s security and reducing nuclear dangers in particular.  We extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all those whose lives have been affected by her service to our nation.”

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